Scented clip

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure provides for multifunction clips that can secure useful tools as well as include aromatic compounds that can repel insects, deodorize, or provide a pleasing aroma to a user.

CROSS REFERENCE TO A RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No.62/850,227, filed on May 20, 2019. The contents of the above documentare incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to clips.

BACKGROUND

During various outdoor activities, bugs or unpleasant smells may bepresent. For example, when on a golf course, bugs are often a problemthat plague golfers. Golfers have tried numerous ways to deter bugs,such as by using bug sprays, dryer sheets, and even smoke. Often agolfer may be hesitant to use certain bug sprays on their hat for fearof the chemicals in the bug spray mixing with sweat on their hats anddripping into their eyes or ruining their hat.

The above information disclosed in this Background section is only forenhancement of understanding of the background of the disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a top view showing one example implementation of a clip.

FIG. 1B is a top view showing one example implementation of a clip.

FIG. 2 is a close-up top view of one example implementation of the clip.

FIG. 3 is a side view of one example implementation of the clip.

FIG. 4 is a bottom view of one example implementation of the clip.

FIG. 5 is a top view showing one example implementation of a clip.

FIG. 6 is a close-up top view of one example implementation of the clip.

FIG. 7 is an isometric view of one example implementation of the clip.

FIG. 8 is a side view showing one example implementation of a cliphaving a thin film.

FIG. 9 is an isometric view of one example implementation of a clipsecured to an article of clothing.

FIG. 10 is an isometric view of one example implementation of a clipsecured to an article of clothing, where a ball marker is secured to theclip.

FIG. 11 is an isometric view of one example implementation of a mold andmagnet orientation jig for making a clip.

FIG. 12 are example implementations of various clips formed in differentshapes.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various implementations of a clip are described more fully hereinafterwith reference to the accompanying drawings. The clip may, however, beembodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limitedto the example implementations set forth herein. Rather, these exampleimplementations are provided so that this disclosure is thorough tothose skilled in the art. In the drawings, the size and relative sizesof layers and regions may be exaggerated for clarity. Like referencenumerals in the drawings denote like elements.

It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to asbeing “on” or “connected to” another element or layer, it can bedirectly on or directly connected to the other element or layer, orintervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when anelement is referred to as being “directly on” or “directly connected to”another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layerspresent.

A clip according to some implementations includes a flexible body thatmay be secured to a separate structure or body, such as hats, belts,other types of clothing, or other suitable objects. In someimplementations, the clip includes two or more magnets to secure theclip to the separate body. In some implementations, the clip can besecured to the separate body using other suitable mechanisms, such as apin, spring clamp, hook and loop, adhesives, etc. In someimplementations, the body of the clip may be formed from a polymericmaterial, such as rubber, elastomer, or plastic. In someimplementations, the body of the clip may be formed from some othersuitable flexible material such as cloth. In some implementations, theclip may removably secure other items such as golf ball markers, fishhooks, lights, writing instruments, or other suitable items while theclip is also removably secured to a separate structure.

In some implementations, the body of the clip includes one or moremagnets. In some implementations, the body of the clip includes one ormore magnets embedded in opposite ends thereof with opposing polarities.When the opposite ends of the body of the clip are bent towards eachother, the opposing polarities of the magnets cause the clip to form aclamp for securing to the separate body. In some implementations, one ormore of the magnets of the clip may help secure a golf ball marker tothe clip (e.g., where the golf ball marker includes ferromagneticmaterial).

In some implementations, the material used to form the clip body may beinfused with one or more organic and/or inorganic compounds. In someimplementations, the outer layer of the clip body may be coated to forma thin film of one or more organic and/or inorganic compounds. In someimplementations, the thin film is connected to the outer layer of theclip body. In some implementations, the thin film is on or directlyconnected to the outer layer of the clip body. In some implementations,the organic or inorganic compounds include scented and/or aromaticcompounds. In some implementations, the clip body may be infused withone or more scented and/or aromatic compounds and also include a thinfilm of one or more scented and/or aromatic compounds. In someimplementations, the one or more scented and/or aromatic compounds mayinclude essential oils or other substances or ground plant matter. Insome implementations, the one or more scented and/or aromatic compoundsmay have insect repellent properties or aromas that are desirable tohumans. It should be appreciated as used herein, the term essential whenreferencing essential oils should not be construed as limiting, ratherthe phrase essential oil should be construed as a natural oil typicallyobtained by distillation and having the characteristic fragrance of theplant or other source from which it is extracted.

In some implementations, as shown in FIG. 1A, clip 100 may include atleast two clip heads 110. In some implementations, the clip 100 mayinclude more than two clip heads 110. In some implementations, the clip100 may include one or more magnets 105 disposed within each of the clipheads 110. In some implementations, the clip 100 has a length L of about59 mm to 60 mm and a width W of about 20 mm. In various implementations,the clip 100 can have any suitable length L and any suitable width W. Insome implementations, the clip heads 110 may have a diameter of about18.5 mm to 20 mm; provided however, clip heads 110 may have any othersuitable diameters. In some implementations, the clip heads 110 can bedifferent sizes (e.g., one clip head 110 can be a different size then anopposing clip head 110). In some implementations, the clip heads 110 canbe formed in different shapes, such as shown in FIG. 1B and FIG. 12. Insome implementations, as shown in FIG. 3, a clip head 110 may be formedwith a thickness T of about 4 mm to 5.5 mm. However, it should beappreciated that the clip head can be any suitable thickness. In someimplementations, as shown in FIG. 3, a clip head 110, the thickness Tmay include a tapering or sloped area T1 that is also described inconnection with FIG. 1A as relief 135. In some implementations, thethickness T to the thinnest section of T1 may range from 4 mm down to1.2 mm. In some implementations, the thinnest section of T1 may rangefrom 1.2 mm-1.8 mm. It should be appreciated that thickness of T1 mayvary to other suitable thicknesses depending on the property of thematerials used to form clip 100.

In some implementations, a clip head 110 may include one or more divots120 disposed therein. In some implementations, the divots are smallindentations in the surface of the clip head 110. In variousimplementations, the divots can be formed in any suitable shape. In someimplementations, a clip head 110 may include three divots 120. In someimplementations, a clip head 110 may include four divots 120. In someimplementations, the divots 120 create variations in the surface textureto provide additional grip when the clip 100 is attached to a separatebody or structure (e.g., an article of clothing). In someimplementations, a divot 120 is about 2 mm in diameter; providedhowever, a divot 120 may be any suitable diameter. In some alternativeimplementations, a divot 120 does not include a diameter when the divotis in a different shape (e.g., a cube). In some implementations, thedivots 120 on a clip head 110 are disposed in a triangle arrangement,substantially equidistant from each other, as shown in greater detail inFIG. 2. It should be appreciated that the divots 120 can be disposed inany suitable arrangement with respect to each other. In someimplementations, the divots 120 may be disposed within a 5 mm radiusfrom the center of the clip head 110. In some implementations, a divot120 is also respectively substantially equidistant from the outerperipheral side of the clip head 110. In some implementations, the clipheads 110 do not include divots 120.

In some implementations, a clip head 110 includes one or more magnets105 disposed within material forming the clip head 110. A side profileview of some implementations of magnets 105 disposed within clip 100 canbe seen in FIG. 8. In some implementations, the polarity of a firstmagnet 105 on a first one of the clip heads 110 is a first polarity anda second magnet 105 of a second one of the clip heads 110 is a secondpolarity. In some implementations, the first polarity and the secondpolarity are different polarities to ensure that the face of the firstmagnet 105 is attracted to the face of the second magnet 105. Thus, whenthe clip 100 is folded such that the faces of clip heads 110 are broughttogether, the clip 100 forms a clamp. When such a clamp formed from theclip 100 is positioned around an article of clothing, such as the brimof a hat, the clip 100 can be secured to the hat. The magnets 105 enablethe clip heads 110 of the clip 100 to be separated to removably detachthe clip 100 from the hat. While magnets 105 are disclosed as housedwithin the clip heads 110, in some implementations, the magnets can befixedly attached to the outside of the clip heads. As noted above, insome implementations, the clip 100 includes other attachment devices inlieu of magnets 105 (e.g., pins, hook and loop fasteners, adhesives,etc.). In some implementations, the clip 100 includes other attachmentdevices in addition to magnets 105. In some implementations, one of theclip heads 110 may include a magnet while the other one of the clipheads 110 does not include a magnet. However, in some suchimplementations, the other one of the clip heads 110 without a magnetmay alternatively include one or more pieces of ferromagnetic materialto attract the magnet disposed in the other clip head 110. In someimplementations, the magnets 105 can be neodymium magnets; providedhowever, other suitable magnets can be used.

In some implementations, the magnets 105 can be used to attach otherobjects to clip 100. For example, when clip 100 is folded and attachedto a brim of a hat, the outer surface (such as illustrated in FIG. 9) ofa clip head 110 is useful to hold objects, such as ball markers. Theball markers can include magnetic or ferrous material that can beattached to the outer surface of a clip head 110 of the clip 100.Objects can also be attached to the outer surface of clip 100 in othersuitable ways (e.g., with adhesives, hook and loop, etc.). In someimplementations, magnets 105 are not visible within clip 100 (e.g.,magnets 105 may be substantially covered with a material used to formthe clip). In some implementations, magnets 105 may be at leastpartially visible within clip 100 (e.g., magnets 105 may besubstantially covered with a material used to form the clip 100. In someimplementations, the material used to form the clip 100 may be at leastpartially translucent enabling the magnet 105 to be at least partiallyvisible within clip 100. In some implementations, magnet 105 may be atleast partially exposed while embedded within clip 100. For example,magnet 105 may be partially exposed on either the top or bottom of clip100 (e.g., partially exposed at the visible surface shown from theperspective of FIG. 1A or partially exposed at the visible surface shownfrom the perspective of FIG. 4). In some implementations, at least someportions of the top and the bottom of one or more of the magnets 105 canbe exposed while embedded within clip 100.

In some implementations, the clip 100 has a connection part 130extending between each clip head 110. In some implementations, theconnection part 130 has a thickness that decreases between the clipheads 110. In some implementations, the connection part 130 decreases inthickness as it extends away from each clip head 110. In someimplementations, the decreasing thickness is on one side of theconnection part 130 of clip 100 (e.g., the visible side in FIG. 1A). Insome implementations, the decreasing thickness causes one side of theconnection part 130 of the clip 100 to favor folding in a particulardirection (e.g., the visible faces of clip heads 110 in FIG. 1A foldtoward each other, which folding is further aided by the magnets 105).In some implementations, the connection part 130 may include concave,inwardly curved sides 132 extending between the clip heads 110. In someimplementations, a relief 135 is disposed around the midpoint of theconnection part 130, the relief 135 having the smallest thickness in theclip 100. An example relief 135 is further illustrated in FIG. 7. Insome implementations, the relief 135 further promotes the propercurvature (e.g., folding) of the clip 100, and helps ensure the clip 100does not become stretched and damaged with repeated flexing and bending.In some implementations, the bottom of the clip 100 is substantiallyplanar and uniform, as shown in FIG. 4. In some implementations, thedecreasing thickness occurs on both sides of the connection part 130(not shown). In some such implementations, the clip 100 may not favorfolding in either direction when the decreasing thickness occurs on bothsides. In some implementations, the connection part 130 can be uniformin thickness. In some implementations, where the connection part 130 isuniform in thickness, the connection part 130 can be the same thicknessas the clip heads 110. In some implementations, where the connectionpart 130 is uniform in thickness, the connection part 130 can be thinneror thicker than the clip heads 110.

The clip 100, according to some implementations, may be folded at therelief 135, and the clip heads 110 may be attracted to and connect witheach other due to the magnets 105 embedded therein. When the clip 100 isfolded, the clip heads 110 may be disposed on either side of an article,such as clothing or a hat, and remain substantially affixed thereto. Forexample, the clip 100 may be affixed to a hat having a thickness ofabout 5 mm (or other suitable thickness). In some implementations theclip 100 is formed from a flexible and curable polymeric material, suchas rubber, elastomer, or plastic, that may be bent or folded repeatedlywithout failing or fracturing. In some implementations, the clip 100 canbe formed from alternative materials such as fabric, cardboard, orpaper. In some implementations, the clip 100 is formed using a mold. Insome implementations, the clip 100 is formed using a mold and analignment jig. In some implementations, the mold is formed as an inverseof the shape of the clip 100. The mold can be formed from one or moredifferent materials. In some implementations, the mold can be formedfrom a polymer. In some implementations, the mold can be formed frommedium density fiberboard. In some implementations, the mold can beformed from plastics, metal, or other suitable material. A furtherdiscussion of some possible implementations of a mold to make clip 100and the process and system to make the mold can be found in connectionwith FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 below.

In some implementations, a mixture of uncured polymeric material ispoured into the mold and allowed to cure. In some implementations wheremagnets 105 are used in the clip heads 110, magnets may be placed in themold prior to adding material to form the clip 100, where the materialis poured into the mold and envelops the magnets 105. In someimplementations, magnets 105 can be added to the mold while adding othermaterial to form the clip 100. In some implementations, magnets 105 canbe added to the mold after adding the material to form the clip 100(e.g., magnets 105 can be added to the uncured material in the mold).

In some implementations where magnets 105 are placed in the mold priorto adding the material for the clip 100, magnets 105 are set on asurface to the underside of the mold in order to properly orient them.In some implementations, the mold includes one or more partial sphericalshapes protruding from the surface of the mold where the clip heads 110are formed. In some implementations, the partial spherical shapes areoriented in the shape shown by divots 120 in FIG. 1A, FIG. 1B, and FIG.2. In some implementations, the partial spherical shapes on the moldcause the magnets 105 to be raised above the surface of the mold wherethe clip heads 110 are formed (e.g., when the magnets 105 are placed onthe partial spherical shapes). In some implementations, raising themagnets 105 off the surface of the mold enables material poured into themold to flow under the magnets 105 to ensure that the magnets 105 aresubstantially encased in the materials used to form the clip 100. Insome implementations, the magnets 105 have a thickness of about 1 mm, sothe uncured polymeric material may flow around the magnets andthroughout the entire mold. In some implementations, magnets 105 have athickness of about 3 mm and a diameter of about 15 mm In someimplementations, the magnets can be any suitable thickness and diameter.In one example implementation, the polymeric material is a silicone or asilicone-urethane elastomer, such as Simpact∩60a. It should beappreciated that other suitable polymeric materials or other materialscan be used to form the clip 100. In some implementations, the clip 100can be formed using other suitable methods and other suitable materials.For example, the clip 100 can be formed using injection molding.

In some implementations, the material used to form the clip 100 can beinfused with scented compounds. In some implementations, scentedcompounds, such as essential oils, can be added to the uncured materialused to form the clip 100. For example, in some implementations, onedrop of essential oil or essential oil mixture may be added to uncuredmaterial used to form the clip 100 (e.g., polymeric material) andblended together, where a ratio of about 0.01 oz of essential oil or amixture thereof is mixed in about 2.0 oz of the uncured material. Insome implementations, the concentration of essential oil in thepolymeric material is about 0.5% (wt/wt). As used herein, the term“essential oil” refers to a concentrated hydrophobic liquid containingvolatile chemical compounds obtained from plants. In someimplementations, volatile chemical compounds may have a low molecularweight below 300 and belong to various chemical classes of alcohols,ethers or oxides, aldehydes, ketones, esters, amines, amides, phenols,heterocycles, and terpenes. In some implementations, if more than apredetermined quantity of essential oil is added to such uncuredmaterial, the uncured material may fail to properly cure. Certainessential oils, such as eucalyptus, may inhibit curing of certainmaterials used to form the clip 100, and therefore may not beappropriate as an additive to the materials. In addition, if an additivesuch as pigment or glitter is desired, such additives can be added tothe uncured mixture and blended together. The uncured material used toform the clip 100 can then be poured into a mold and allowed tosufficiently cure.

In some implementations, a thin film 145 as illustrated in FIG. 8 can beadded to clip 100. In some implementations, the thin film 145 can be inaddition to the scented compounds that were added during the clip 100forming process. In some implementations, the thin film 145 can be analternative to adding scented compounds to clip 100 during the clip 100forming process (e.g., scented compounds are not added to the uncuredpolymeric materials used to form the clip 100). In some implementations,once clip 100 is cured sufficiently, the thin film 145 can be added toclip 100. In some implementations, the thin film 145 can be added toclip 100 even before clip 100 has cured, to the extent that the thinfilm 145 does not interfere with the curing process. In someimplementations, the thin film 145 is added to clip 100 by soaking clip100 in a thin film solution with scented or aromatic compounds for apredetermined period of time. In some implementations, the thin filmsolution may include a ratio of oil mixed with scented or aromaticcompounds. In some implementations, the thin film solution may include aratio of oil mixed with a first scented or aromatic compound. In someimplementations, the first scented or aromatic compound may includeground tree bark (e.g., cassia bark or cinnamon). In someimplementations, the thin film solution may include a ratio of oil mixedwith one or more scented or aromatic compounds. For example, in someimplementations, the thin film solution may include a mixture of about200 grams of oil (e.g., grape seed oil or some other suitable oil),about 5 grams of cinnamon bark powder (e.g., cassia bark powder or othersuitable compound), and about 10 grams of vanillin powder (e.g., a ratioof 2:1 of vanillin powder to cinnamon bark powder). This ratio of cassiabark powder and vanillin powder, when provided as a thin film on clip100, unexpectedly provided a stronger repelling effect to one or moreinsects such as gnats than using cassia bark powder alone. Moreover, thehigher ratio of vanillin to cinnamon bark powder further enhanced therepelling effect to one or more insects than when lower quantities ofvanillin are used. It should be appreciated that the thin film solutionmixture ratio described herein is merely an example, and other suitableother ratios and other suitable compounds can be used to accomplish aspecific purpose (e.g., insect repellent, aromatherapy, deodorant, odormasking, etc.) for thin film 145.

In some implementations, the thin film 145 is formed on clip 100 bysubmerging clip 100 in the thin film solution and soaking clip 100 for apredetermined period of time. In some implementations, the predeterminedperiod of time is 48 hours. It should be appreciated that thepredetermined period of time can be other suitable periods of timedepending on the compounds in the thin film solution. In someimplementations, the clip 100 can be rotated and/or flipped in the thinfilm solution after being submerged in the thin film solution to ensureadequate coverage or adherence to the surface of clip 100. In someimplementations, the clip 100 is rotated or flipped after about 24 hoursof being submerged in the thin film solution. It should be appreciatedthat clip 100 can be rotated or flipped in the thin film solution atother suitable time frames. In some implementations, after clip 100 hasremained in the thin film solution for a predetermined period of time(e.g., 48 hours or other suitable time), clip 100 is removed and dried(e.g., passively or mechanically), leaving the thin film 145 on thesurface and/or on the subsurface of clip 100. In some implementations,excess thin film solution on clip 100 can be mechanically removed (e.g.,with air, heat, absorbent materials, or using other suitabletechniques).

In some implementations, the thin film 145 can be applied using anaqueous thin film solution. For example in some alternativeimplementations, once clip 100 is cured sufficiently, the clip 100 canbe removed from a mold and submerged and soaked in a thin film solutionof about 2.0 oz of water and 0.05 oz of a scented compound (e.g.,essential oil or other suitable compound) for a predetermined amount oftime (e.g., 24 hours or some other suitable amount of time). It shouldbe appreciated that different scented compounds may require differentsoaking times for clip 100.

In some implementations, a suitable thin film solution of the scentedcompound can be sprayed on the clip 100 without soaking to form the thinfilm 145. In some implementations, the clip 100 is dipped into asuitable solution of a scented compound to coat the clip 100 withoutextended soaking time (e.g., less than 1 hour or some other suitabletime) to form the thin film 145. In some implementations, the clip 100is then allowed to dry with the coating of the solution of the scentedcompound to form the thin film 145. For example, the clip 100 can bepassively air dried or mechanically dried. In some implementations, thematerial used to form the clip 100 (e.g., the polymeric material) maynaturally include a microscopic uneven surface or a texturedmicro-surface that forms on the surface of clip 100 during curing. Insome implementations, when the uncured material is mixed (e.g.,combining two or more compounds to form the polymeric material), themixing introduces some visible and microscopic air bubbles. In someimplementations, such microscopic air bubbles may form on or near anouter surface of the material used to form the clip 100. In someimplementations, these air bubbles may rupture, forming amicroscopically uneven surface or a textured micro-surface around theouter surface of the clip 100. Accordingly, when the clip 100 is coatedin a solution with scented or aromatic compounds and dried, the driedthin film solution may leave a thin film 145 of one or more scentedcompounds on the textured micro-surface of the clip 100. In someimplementations, the microscopically uneven surface or a texturedmicro-surface may help a solution with scented or aromatic compoundsbetter adhere to the clip 100. Since the clip 100 may have amicroscopically uneven surface, the scented compounds in the thin filmare durably disposed thereon, compared to a smooth surface. It should beappreciated that in some implementations where the clip 100 includes asmooth surface, such a thin film can also be deposited on a smoothsurface of clip 100. It should be appreciated from the above discussionthat the thin film can be prepared on the clip 100 using an aqueous ornon-aqueous thin film solution in various different implementations. Insome implementations, a suitable thin film solution is applied to theclip 100 and clip 100 and the thin film solution are heated to atemperature that allows polymer molecules of clip 100 to expand and trapcompounds in the thin film solution in the surface and/or subsurface ofclip 100 and forming a thin film 145 on clip 100. In someimplementations, clip 100 is heated to a temperature that allows polymermolecules of clip 100 to expand and trap compounds on the surface and/orsubsurface of clip 100 and a suitable thin film solution is thereafterapplied to the heated clip 100. In such an implementation, when theheated clip 100 is allowed to cool, compounds in the thin film solutionare trapped on the surface and subsurface of clip 100 and also allowedto form the thin film 145 on clip 100.

In some implementations, a length of time during which the scentedcompounds (formed as a thin film around clip 100) remain effective, suchas having bug repellent properties or desirable aromas, is unexpectedlygreater than when typically applied to a smooth surface. In someimplementations, there may be a loss of intensity of the scentedcompounds in the clip 100 (whether embedded in the clip 100 or formed asa thin film around the clip 100) the more the scented compounds areexposed to air (e.g., through oxidation or through inadvertentmechanical removal). Thus, in some implementations, a thin film solutionof scented compounds can be made available to users to revive theintensity of the scented compounds on clip 100. For example, the clip100 can undergo additional coating with the solution of the scentedcompounds and drying. With the appropriate ratio of an aqueous ornon-aqueous thin film solution with scented compounds, the coatingprocess may be repeated in order to re-deposit a new scented compoundthin film on the surface of the clip 100 and extend the effectiveness ofthe scented compound (for repelling bugs or providing a pleasant aromato the user). In some implementations, a proper ratio of scentedcompounds (e.g., as previously discussed) in an aqueous or non-aqueoussolution is important to avoid harmful effects of the scented compoundsin certain applications. For example, if a full strength or undilutedsolution of lavender essential oil is applied as a thin film to clip100, clip 100 may be unusable when worn near a user's face (e.g., on abrim of a hat). The undiluted scented compound may cause a user's eyesto water as well as cause other unintended physiological effects.

According to some implementations, as shown in FIG. 5, FIG. 6, and FIG.7, a flexible magnetic clip 200 includes two clip heads 210 havingdivots 220 disposed therein. The flexible magnetic clip 200 according tothe present exemplary implementation may be substantially similar invarious respects to the clip 100 as described above with respect to FIG.1A, FIG. 1B, FIG. 2, FIG. 3, and FIG. 4 of the present application, andthe method of forming the clip 100, and the disclosure thereof isincorporated herein by reference, and any repeated disclosure may beomitted for the sake of brevity. Likewise, the disclosure with respectto the flexible magnetic clip 200 described in connection with FIG. 5,FIG. 6, and FIG. 7 is incorporated by reference into the exampleimplementation described with respect to FIG. 1A, FIG. 1B, FIG. 2, FIG.3, and FIG. 4 above.

The clip 200 has a length L of about 60 mm and a width W of about 20 mm.It should be appreciated that other suitable lengths and widths can beused for clip 200. The clip heads 210 may each have a diameter of about20 mm. It should be appreciated that other suitable diameters can beused for the clip heads 210. In some implementations, one or more clipheads 210 has divots 220 disposed therein. As illustrated, a clip head210 may include four divots 220. In some implementations, a divot 220can be about 2 mm in diameter. In some implementations, the four divots220 in each clip head 210 are disposed in a diamond arrangement,substantially equidistant from each other, as shown in greater detail inFIG. 6. It should be appreciated that other arrangements of the divots220 can be used. The divots 220 may be disposed within a 5 mm radiusfrom the center of the clip head 210 in some implementations. In someimplementations, each divot 220 can be respectively substantiallyequidistant from the side of the clip head 210. In some implementations,clip heads 210 may include one or more magnets such as described abovein FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2, 3, and 4. In some implementations, each clip head210 has a thickness T of about 4 mm, as shown in FIG. 7, and the bottomof the flexible magnetic clip 200 can be substantially planar anduniform, as shown in FIG. 4.

FIG. 9 is an isometric view of one implementation of a clip 100 securedto a brim of a hat 410. Clip 100 is shown folded around the brim of hat410 where the attraction force of magnets within the clip heads of clip100 removably secure the clip 100 to the hat. The clip 100 can beattached to other suitable items besides hats.

FIG. 10 is an isometric view of one implementation of a clip 100 securedto the hat 410, where a ball marker 450 is removably secured to the clip100. The ball marker 450 may include a magnet or otherwise ferrousmaterial that causes a magnet in clip 100 to removably secure the ballmarker 450. As noted above, other suitable items can be attached to theclip 100, such as pens, fishing lures, etc. In addition to securelyholding an object to the clip 100, when clip 100 includes an embedded orthin film of a scented compound, the clip 100 may also performadditional duties of repelling bugs or providing a deodorant or pleasantscent in an area surrounding the clip 100.

FIG. 11 illustrates an isometric view of one example implementation of amold and a magnet orientation jig for making one or more clips 100. Insome implementations, the mold is stackable over the magnet orientationjig. In some implementations, one or more clips 100 can be made usingmold 520 and magnet orientation jig 500. In some implementations, themold 520 fits over top of the magnet orientation jig 500 and isremovably fitted over top of the magnet orientation jig 500. In someimplementations, the mold 520 can be formed from a polymer such asAcrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), polyethylene (HDPE), or someother suitable polymer. In some implementations, mold 520 includes foursides 522 a, 522 b, 522 c, and 522 d that are connected to top 523.Together, the four sides 522 a, 522 b, 522 c, and 522 d and top 523 forma hollow cover that can fit over or otherwise stack on top of magnetorientation jig 500.

In some implementations, mold 520 includes one or more recessed areas525 for accepting material to form clip 100 (e.g., magnets and uncuredpolymer). In some implementations, a recessed area 525 may include afirst end and a second end that correspond to clip heads 110 of clip 100when forming the clip 100. While mold 520 is displayed with eightrecessed areas 525, mold 520 may be configured with fewer recessed areas525 (e.g., 1 or more recessed areas 525) as well as more than eightrecessed areas 525. In some implementations, recessed areas 525 includeone or more partial spherical shapes 527 that slightly protrude into therecessed areas 525. In some implementations, the one or more partialspherical shapes 527 protrude into the recessed areas 525 less than 1 mm(or some other suitable amount of protrusion into the recessed areas525). The partial spherical shapes 527 can be oriented in a variety ofdifferent ways (e.g., as points of triangles, squares, etc.) As wasdiscussed above, these partial spherical shapes 527 may serve one ormore purposes such as to help orient magnets placed in recessed area525, allow polymer materials to flow underneath the magnets in recessedarea 525, and/or form grip divots in the clip 100. It should also beappreciated that the partial spherical shapes can be formed using othersuitable shapes. In some implementations, recessed areas 525 may includea raised area 524 that gradually increases and decreases in heightbetween either end of a recessed area 525 (e.g., between one end withpartial spherical shapes 527 and the other end with partial sphericalshapes of a recessed area 525). It should be appreciated that inimplementations with the raised area 524, the recessed areas 525 canform the relief 135 or sloped area T1 of clip 100, such as describedabove with respect to FIG. 1A or FIG. 3. While not visible, in someimplementations, the underside of mold 520 is hollow and sized slightlylarger than magnet orientation jig 500 such that mold 520 will removablyfit over magnet orientation jig 500 and recessed areas 525 will sitwithin recessed areas 510 of the magnet orientation jig 500 (e.g., mold520 is stacked over magnet orientation jig 500).

In some implementations, the magnet orientation jig 500 can be formedfrom wood, medium density fiberboard (MDF), a polymer, metal, or someother suitable material. In some implementations, the magnet orientationjig 500 is constructed from a solid material. However, in someimplementations, magnet orientation jig 500 may be constructed similarlyto the mold 525 (e.g., with four sides connected to a top). In someimplementations, magnet orientation jig 500 is sized slightly smallerthan mold 520 such that mold 520 will removably fit over magnetorientation jig 500 (e.g., mold 520 is stackable over magnet orientationjig 500). In some implementations, magnet orientation jig 500 includesone or more magnet jig recessed areas 510 that are capable of receivingrecessed areas 525 of mold 520. While magnet orientation jig 500 isdisplayed with eight magnet jig recessed areas 510, magnet orientationjig 500 may be configured with fewer magnet jig recessed areas 510(e.g., 1 or more magnet jig recessed areas 510) as well as more thaneight magnet jig recessed areas 510.

In some implementations, as shown in exploded view 512, a magnet jigrecessed area 510 may include one or more magnets 514 and one or morefasteners 516. In some implementations, the one or more magnets 514 aresecured in a central area of one or more of the ends of the magnet jigrecessed areas 510. In some implementations, it may be desirable to havemagnets 105 centered in clip 100. In such implementations, where magnets514 are centered within magnet jig recessed area 510, when magnets 105are added to clip 100 during the formation process, magnets 105 will beattracted to, removably secured, and aligned within a substantiallycentral position within clip heads 110 of clip 100. It should beappreciated that in alternative implementations, magnets 514 can besecured in positions offset from center or in any suitable positionwithin magnet jig recessed area 510 in accordance with the desiredplacement of magnet 105 during the clip 100 formation process. In someimplementations, each end of a magnet jig recessed area 510 includes aring-shaped magnet 514 with an opening. In some implementations, thering-shaped magnet 514 is secured to magnet orientation jig 500 with afastener 516 (e.g., a screw). It should be appreciated that in someimplementations, magnet 514 can be secured to the magnet orientation jig500 with an alternative fastener (e.g., an adhesive or other suitablemechanical fastener). In some implementations, magnets 514 in one magnetjig recessed area 510 may include opposite polarities on the exposedsurfaces shown in FIG. 11. The opposing polarities on the exposedsurfaces of magnets 514 in one magnet jig recessed area 510 can ensurethat magnets (e.g., magnets 105) added to the clip heads (e.g., clipheads 110) to form a clip 100 are oriented with the correct polarity(e.g., so that the clip heads 110 of a cured clip 100 will properlyclamp together). It should be appreciated that in some implementations,magnet orientation jig 500 does not use fasteners 516. In someimplementations, magnet orientation jig 500 may use one or more furtherrecessed areas (not shown) within magnet jig recessed area 510 toremovably secure and position magnet 514, where the further recessedareas are sized to fit magnet 514 without magnet 514 sliding around.

The following is a description of using the combination of the mold 510and the magnet orientation jig together to form one or more clips 100.In some implementations, a mold release agent can be pre-applied to themold 520 to help ensure release of materials added to the mold. In someimplementations, the mold 520 is placed over the magnet orientation jig500 such that mold 520 covers the magnet orientation jig 500 and thatrecessed areas 525 of the mold 520 can rest within magnet jig recessedareas 510. In some implementations, at least some portions of theunderside surface of mold 520 are in direct contact with at least someportions of the surface of magnet orientation jig 500. However, in someimplementations, contact between these surfaces is not necessary so longas the strength of the magnets 514 is sufficient to properly orient andsecure magnets that are placed in the mold 520 (e.g., magnets 105). Insome implementations, when the mold 520 is arranged to cover the magnetorientation jig 500, a polymer compound with desired tinting or coloringis prepared and added to the mold 520. In some implementations, thepolymer may include added scent/aromatic compounds when appropriate, aswas previously discussed. In some implementations, one or more recessedareas 525 are partially filled with the polymer compound withoutsubstantially filling the one or more recessed areas 525. It should beappreciated is some implementations, one or more recessed areas 525 aresubstantially filled with the polymer compound. In some implementations,after partially filling the one or more recessed areas 525 with thepolymer compound, a magnet (e.g., magnet 105) is added at least one end(or both ends) of one or more of the recessed areas 525. In someimplementations, the magnets 514 of the magnet orientation jig 500 willensure that a magnet 105 placed in mold 520 is positioned centrally withrespect to the magnet 514 and that the correct polarity of magnet 105 isfacing magnet 514. To the extent that magnet 105 is repelled by magnet514, then magnet 105 should be flipped 180 degrees within recessed area525. It should be appreciated that magnets 105 placed in recessed areas525 may rest on the partial spherical shapes 527. In someimplementations, if one or more recessed areas 525 are partially filled,additional polymer can be added to cover the magnets 105 or to otherwiseachieve the desired thickness T of a clip 100. In some implementations,the polymer added to the one or more recessed areas 525 in mold 520 areallowed to sufficient cure (e.g. for 8 hours or the appropriate cureperiod for the polymer used to form clips 100). In some implementations,clips 100 are removed from the mold 520 and tested to ensure properflexibility and clamp strength (e.g., clips 100 may be removably securedto brim of a hat or a belt). Thus, it should be appreciated that whenmold 520 is used in combination with magnet orientation jig 510, thecombination provides a simple tool to quickly and accurately form clips100.

It should also be appreciated that mold 520 can be constructed with oneor more of the features of magnet orientation jig 500 to eliminate theuse of magnet orientation jig 500. For example, in some implementations,mold 520 may include magnet 514 secured to the underside of recessedareas 525 in desirable positions so that when magnet 105 are placed inthe mold 520, magnets 105 are properly positioned (e.g., centered andoriented with the correct polarity) in the same manner as using magnetorientation jig 500. In some implementations, magnets 514 are not usedwith mold 520. For example, in some implementations, mold 520 mayinclude one or more further recessed areas (not shown) within recessedarea 525 to secure and position magnets 105, where such further recessedareas are sized to fit magnets 105 without magnets 105 sliding around inrecessed areas 525 within mold 520. In some implementations, the partialspherical shapes 527 can be contained within such further recessedareas. Moreover, the polarity of magnets 105 can be color coded orotherwise marked so that placement of the magnet 105 in the mold 520 canbe easily discerned without requiring magnets 514 to determine polarityorientation of magnets 105. Thus, mold 520 can be further simplified andused without magnet orientation jig 500 in some implementations.

FIG. 12 are further nonlimiting example implementations of various clipsformed in different shapes. Clip 610 a illustrates an alternativeexample of clip 100 with triangular shaped clip heads rather thancircular clip heads. Clip 610 b illustrates an alternative example ofclip 100 with heart shaped clip heads rather than circular clip heads.Clip 610 c illustrates an alternative example of clip 100 with squareshaped clip heads rather than circular clip heads. Clip 610 dillustrates an alternative example of clip 100 with star shaped clipheads rather than circular clip heads. It should be appreciated thatclip heads of a clip 100 may include different shaped clip heads (e.g.,a circle clip head on one end and a star shaped clip head on an oppositeend of a clip 100). In some implementations, each end of clip 100 mayinclude more than one clip head. While the illustrated clip heads inFIG. 12 show distinct ridges between the clip heads and a centerconnecting portion between two clip heads, it should be appreciated thatin some implementations, the clips do not include these distinct ridgesand may include smooth transitions between the clip heads and the centerconnection portion of the clips, similar to the clips described above inFIG. 1A and FIG. 7.

The present disclosure is not to be limited in terms of the particularimplementations described in this application, which are intended asillustrations of various aspects. Moreover, the various disclosedimplementations can be interchangeably used with each other, unlessotherwise noted. Many modifications and variations can be made withoutdeparting from its spirit and scope, as will be apparent to thoseskilled in the art. Functionally equivalent methods and apparatuseswithin the scope of the disclosure, in addition to those enumeratedherein will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoingdescriptions. Such modifications and variations are intended to fallwithin the scope of the disclosure. It is also to be understood that theterminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularimplementations and is not intended to be limiting.

With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singularterms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from theplural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as isappropriate to the context and/or application. The varioussingular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sakeof clarity.

It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, termsused herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of theappended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term“including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” theterm “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term“includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,”etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if aspecific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such anintent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence ofsuch recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid tounderstanding, the disclosure may contain usage of the introductoryphrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce recitations.However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply thatthe introduction of a recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an”limits any particular feature containing such introduced recitation toimplementations containing only one such recitation, even when the samerecitation includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at leastone” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an”should be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the sameholds true for the use of definite articles used to introducerecitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introducedrecitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art willrecognize that such recitation should be interpreted to mean at leastthe recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,”without other modifiers, means at least two recitations, or two or morerecitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a conventionanalogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in generalsuch a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the artwould understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one ofA, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have Aalone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and Ctogether, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where aconvention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, ingeneral such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill inthe art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at leastone of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that haveA alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and Ctogether, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be furtherunderstood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive wordand/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in thedescription or drawings, should be understood to contemplate thepossibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, orboth terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be understood toinclude the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.” In addition, wherefeatures or aspects of the disclosure are described in terms of Markushgroups, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure isalso thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup ofmembers of the Markush group.

A number of implementations of the have been described. Variousmodifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope ofthe disclosure. For example, various forms of the processor disclosedabove may be used, with steps re-ordered, added, or removed.

What is claimed is:
 1. A clip comprising: a body having an outersurface; a first end of the body having an inner face; a second end ofthe body having an inner face; a first magnetically attractable elementpositioned at least partially within the body at the first end, where apolarity of the first magnetically attractable element at the inner faceof the first end is a first polarity; a second magnetically attractableelement positioned at least partially within the body at the second end,where a polarity of the second magnetically attractable element at theinner face of the second end is a second polarity; a tapered midsectionof the body; and a thin film deposited on the outer surface of the body.2. The clip of claim 1, wherein the body is a flexible polymer.
 3. Theclip of claim 2, wherein the flexible polymer comprises silicone.
 4. Theclip of claim 1, wherein the first polarity is an opposite polarity ofthe second polarity such that the inner face of the first end and theinner face of the second end are magnetically attracted to each otherand form a clamp.
 5. The clip of claim 1, wherein the thin filmcomprises aromatic compounds.
 6. The clip of claim 5, wherein thearomatic compounds comprise organic compounds.
 7. The clip of claim 6,wherein the organic compounds further comprise cassia bark powder. 8.The clip of claim 6, wherein the organic compounds further comprisevanillin powder.
 9. The clip of claim 6, wherein the organic compoundsfurther comprise a ratio of two different organic compounds.
 10. Theclip of claim 9, wherein the ratio of organic compounds is 2:1.
 11. Theclip of claim 9, wherein the ratio of organic compounds is two partsvanillin powder to one part cassia bark powder.
 12. The clip of claim 1,wherein the thin film comprises compounds that repel insects.
 13. Theclip of claim 1, wherein the outer surface of the body comprises atextured micro-surface and wherein the thin film layer adheres totextured micro-surface.
 14. The clip of claim 1, wherein the first endfurther comprises at least one divot.
 15. The clip of claim 1, whereinthe first end comprises an outer face and wherein the outer faceremovably secures a ferromagnetic object.
 16. A clip comprising: a bodyhaving an outer surface; a first end of the body having an inner face; asecond end of the body having an inner face; a magnetically attractableelement positioned at least partially within the body at the first end;a ferromagnetic element positioned at least partially within the body atthe second end; and a thin film deposited on the outer surface of thebody.
 17. The clip of claim 16, wherein the body is a flexible polymer.18. The clip of claim 17, wherein the flexible polymer comprisessilicone.
 19. The clip of claim 16, wherein the magnetically attractableelement in the first end causes the inner face of the first end tomagnetically attract inner face of the second end and form a clamp. 20.The clip of claim 16, wherein the first end comprises an outer face andwherein the outer face removably secures a ferromagnetic object.